A California sheriff’s deputy has been charged with felony child abuse after prosecutors alleged that he choked his 5-year-old son because the child failed to finish breakfast within 15 minutes.

San Mateo County Sheriff’s Deputy Steven Romero allegedly attacked the boy at his home in Livermore, California, in March while the child was under Romero’s care with his stepmother.

According to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, the incident began after the boy did not finish his breakfast within the designated time. Prosecutors allege that Romero then forced the child to jump rope before grabbing him around the mouth and neck.

The deputy allegedly dragged the child into his bedroom by the ear.

Child Taken to Hospital After Alleged Attack
The young boy was later taken to a hospital, where a doctor reportedly determined that his injuries were consistent with physical abuse. The child had visible bruising around his ear, according to prosecutors.

The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office subsequently charged Romero with felony child abuse.

At the time of the alleged incident, Romero had already been on leave from the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office since April 2025.

The sheriff’s office confirmed that it was aware of the allegations and had opened an internal investigation.

“The alleged conduct occurred off duty in Alameda County while Mr. Romero was on leave,” the agency said, according to KTVU.

Neighbors Shocked by Allegations
Neighbors who spoke with KTVU said they were surprised by the allegations against Romero, describing him as a friendly family man.

Some residents said they had seen Romero walking through the neighborhood with his children and said the family had appeared loving, with no obvious signs of trouble.

The allegations have nevertheless prompted additional scrutiny as the criminal case moves forward.

Defense Seeks Mental Health Diversion
Court records indicate that Romero’s legal team has requested mental health diversion in the case. The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office has opposed that request.

Records obtained by KTVU reportedly show that Romero had been receiving treatment at a specialized recovery program for first responders since June.

His reported diagnoses at the program included alcohol use disorder, cannabis use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and major depression.

A pretrial hearing is scheduled for September 15.

Romero has been charged with felony child abuse, but the allegations remain unproven in court.

Course: NY Post